This week’s guest is David Ribich of Union Athletics Club, a 3:55 miler and many-time D2 NCAA champion at Western Oregon University. You also might know David as the host of the Sit and Kick podcast or the author of Small School; Big Dreams- he’s quite the renaissance man.

This was absolutely one of my favorite conversations I’ve ever had on the podcast – David was super honest and vulnerable in talking about his journey with the sport and pulling back the curtain on what it means to go through a contract renegotiation as a pro runner. He also shared his changing goals and perspective as he’s grown in his time as a pro, and of course, because it’s Valentine’s Day, we got David’s full love story and recap of his proposal to his fiancée in an Irish castle of all places.

Thanks for listening and please don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and throw us some love in the ratings and reviews. This show just turned 5 years old and the whole time it really has been a love letter from me to the sport, the culture, and all the people who make running so much bigger than just a type of exercise. Thanks again and enjoy the episode!

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NOTABLE QUOTES AND NOTES

On leaving Brooks Beasts:

“It felt like a breakup. A lot of love went into that relationship and I really put myself out there emotionally. And when I had the option to stay with the team through the fall [after being released], I chose not to because I needed to look forward, to figure out my next step.”

On looking forward to 2023:

“I had to look at myself in the mirror this whole fall and ask, ‘why the hell am I doing this still?’ I could make more money doing something else. It’s about a childhood dream that I want to pursue- at this point in my career, for myself.”

On his dreams as a professional runner:

“At this point in my career, I’m in this for me. I’ve been the nice guy; I’ve represented my team and my brand. Now my dream as a runner is to step off the track proud of myself. I’m trying to get the max effort out of my body.”

On training with Union Athletic Club:

“It’s nice to be surrounded by people who know what they want and go for what they want. I have a lot to learn from this environment.”